It’s hard to believe that we are once again welcoming the season of Advent into our lives. Advent ushers us toward the incarnation, the coming of God to dwell with us as a child born to Mary. More than that, though, Advent invites us to time apart….quiet time….sacred time. Advent reminds us of what it means to watch and wait. Advent calls us to be ready.
I’ve shared with you in years past how much I value the German practice of keeping Advent as a culture. In Germany, in this season leading to Christmas, Advent wreaths are everywhere – in stores, in homes, and in schools. Advent hymns sound from caroling choirs and radio stations.
We miss a great deal when we leap right into Christmas. We forget what it is to wait. We forget what it is to make ready.
In this season, the Church wears her deepest blues….reminding us of the night sky in winter and the deep waters of baptism.
In this season, the Church lights her candles as markers of time as it ushers us into what has already been and what we await coming into being.
If you do not already do so, I invite you to keep Advent in your home. An Advent wreath can be made from materials you have on hand. The only necessities are four candles for the Sundays in Advent and a center candle for Christmas, if you desire. Light the candles, not only on Sundays, but each evening, to remind you to prepare your heart for the coming of Christ and to remind you that the light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.
Bruce and our children (and Pancho) join me in wishing you and those you love the deep gifts of the season – peace in your waiting and joy in your preparing.
With gladness,
Pastor Julie Hutson+